Hey, ya'll.
I'm sorry, I don't want to be a downer, but I wanted to say a few words about my best friend.
I found this morning that my old labrador, Ben, had passed away during the night last night. He had just turned 15 years old, and he had to walk around slowly, but he was always happy. I only wish I could have been there for him as he left, just to comfort him. I owed him that much.
I feel guilty because I've been so busy, I didn't spend much time with him lately. He was always a good boy and a good friend. He loved to hunt with me, and when he was younger he caught the frisbee a thousand times. He walked with me every step I took outside, and was never mad at me for not having as much time for him.
There was some discussion lately about whether or not pets have souls and go to Heaven. I have no doubts that Ben had a wonderful, beautiful soul, and is at this moment running and jumping and chasing birds. I can't imagine that any pet who has the capacity to love someone as much as Ben obviously loved me, lacked a soul and the ability to shrug off the pains and infirmities of old age and live forever in happiness.
I'll miss my old friend dearly. I have to believe he's now happy and young, and waiting to see me again. You've been a good boy, Big Ben, and I love you.